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LAPD Chief Beck's mother dies at age 87

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Los Angeles Police officials announced today that the 87-year-old mother of Chief Charlie Beck has died.

Elma Beck was surrounded by family and friends at her home in San Pedro when she died on October 18. Emma Beck had brief battle with cancer, a statement released by the LAPD reported.

Born Elma Catherine Keller on Sept. 15, 1923, in Nanaimo, Canada, Elma Beck earned her nursing degree from St. Paul School of Nursing in 1945 and moved to Los Angeles.

She earned her bachelors degree and teaching credential from Long Beach State University in 1966 and was a fifth-grade teacher at Ramona Elementary School in Bellflower for 19 years.

Elma Beck was also a lifelong athlete who she still holds a national title for power-lifting in her age and weight category. An accomplished artist, her paintings have been displayed in several South Bay area galleries and restaurants.

She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, retired LAPD Deputy Chief George Beck two children, six grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Memorial services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation in loving memory of Elma Beck.